Lender or Agent, Which One First

[Eddie Brenton]

I am looking to buy my first investment property within the next 6 to 12 months. The strategy I am most interested in is using a vacation home loan to acquire a coastal market STR property. I have 3 possible markets in mind, 2 in NC and one in FL.

I know I need to be prequalified for a loan before I start making offers, but I'm not sure who I should contact first, the lenders or the agents? 

I tried searching for a lender online, but I'm only seeing the big names that offer mainly traditional loans, and not seeing anything specifically for a 10% down vacation home loan. I'm not sure if I need to reach out to investor-specific lenders, or if all the big players will give me the options I'm looking for as well. 

Will a good agent put me in touch with the right lender for my needs?

Any help or advise will be greatly appreciated.